2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (142 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 566 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Renault 21 | |
Make | Mazda | Renault |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 21 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1870 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2820 mm |